Common Mistakes to Avoid When Filing for Workers’ Comp
Workers’ compensation is intended to protect employees, in the case that they become injured at their workplace. Workplace injuries can happen in nearly any work environment, including an office building, a factory, a construction site, or a retail environment. Workplace injuries may also vary from minor to significant, including scrapes, burns, head injury, neck injury, back injury, muscle strain, soreness, and leg injury. Workers’ compensation may cover multiple costs, including medical bills and lost wages. If you become injured in the workplace, it is important to remember that your employer will most likely try to protect the reputation of the company. Furthermore, the following behaviors are common mistakes to avoid when filing for workers’ compensation.
Mistake #1: Not hiring an experienced attorney
If you become injured in the workplace, it is crucial to hire a personal injury attorney, specifically with experience in workplace accidents. In addition to obtaining compensation successfully, the entire process becomes simplified when working with a personal injury attorney, as they represent you in the court of law. Workers’ compensation attorneys know all of the small details that are factored into a workers’ compensation case, and will usually offer a free consultation to meet with them.
Mistake #2: Not Reporting the accident immediately
If you become injured at your workplace, immediately report the incident to your employer. Ensure to follow through with all of your employer’s procedures, and obtain a copy of all documentation, especially the accident report. Your employer will most likely provide a list of approved medical professionals for you to visit. It is vital that you meet with one of their recommended medical professionals, especially if you agreed to do so when being hired. If you wish to visit another medical professional that is not listed by your employer, you must tell your employer you are changing doctors.
Mistake #3: Missing doctors appointments
You must be evaluated by a medical professional, in order to prove your claim is valid. Most doctors will offer advice and recommendations to your employer and insurance company, including your ability to return to work. If you miss appointments, this will offer your insurance company the belief that you are not cooperating. Be sure to provide as much detail about the accident to your doctor, along with your medical history. Remember, the more accurate information you provide, the more complete your medical record will appear.
Mistake #4: Failing to submit an accurate and timely claim
Workers compensation claims start with documentation, that must be complete and accurate. It is highly recommended to submit the claim within a specified amount of time, after the accident occurs. Filing a claim after an extended period of time may prevent you from obtaining full compensation. An incomplete or inaccurate form may result in denial that delays benefits.
Mistake #5: Returning to work too soon
When filing for workers’ compensation, insurance companies are spending money. In order to cut costs, insurance companies may pressure employers to find some sort of work that an employee can do. Ask your doctors for a documented description of the type of work that you are able to do. Review the description to ensure that you are physically able to complete the documented job duties. Remember, you do not have to fulfill any job duties you are unable to complete, as a result of the accident.
Workplace injuries happen unexpectedly, and may introduce detrimental injuries, causing life changes. If you become injured in the workplace, immediately inform your employer, and seek medical attention. Be sure to comply with all of the recommendations your employer offers, especially which doctors to visit. Throughout the process, personally document your injuries, and if they improve or worsen. Obtain copies of documentation that are recorded about your injuries. The next step is to hire a personal injury attorney who is eager to obtain the compensation you deserve.
If you or someone you know has been injured in a car crash or truck accident and are in need of an accident attorney in Miami, Fort Lauderdale, West Palm Beach, Naples, Ocala, Orlando, Tampa, Gainesville, Jacksonville, Tallahassee, Ft. Myers or any other city in Florida –remember after 911, call 411! 1-800-411-PAIN can put you in touch with an experienced, aggressive network attorney who will fight for your rights and get the maximum compensation you deserve. Don’t forget to follow 411 PAIN on Twitter (@411PAIN), keep up with the conversation at #411PAIN and check out the 411 PAIN event gallery 411painevents.com!